Well-run Government institutions and entities can guarantee a better life for future generations, but this can only happen when the oversight bodies become effective engines that drive the performance of State institutions, said Minister for the Public Service administration, Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi.

Minister Inkosi Buthelezi was addressing the inaugural conference on “The Role of Oversight and Compliance Bodies in State Capacity Building,” currently underway in Benoni, Gauteng Province.

“Citizens have entrusted us with the duty to ensure that public resources and institutions serve their needs equitably, transparently, and effectively. Oversight bodies such as the Office of the Public Protector, Parliament, Chapter 9 and Chapter 10 institutions, and other ombudsman offices embody the principles of accountability and ethical leadership.

“As bedrocks of democracy and service delivery, oversight bodies and institutions supporting democracy are not just mere abstractions; they are engines that drive the hope and aspirations of millions of South Africans who rely on their effectiveness for basic services, economic empowerment, and social justice,” said Minister Inkosi Buthelezi.

In order to safeguard the lives of South Africans by ensuring that the State institutions operate within the bounds of legality and fairness, the Minister stressed the importance of ensuring that oversight bodies not only have adequate resources but are also guaranteed their independence.

“The relationship between oversight and compliance is fundamental to the performance of state institutions and the realisation of our developmental goals,” said Minister Inkosi Buthelezi.

According to the Minister, the goal of building a capable and ethical developmental state necessitates the professionalisation of all its supporting institutions, including those responsible for oversight.

“Professionalisation will ensure that those entrusted with public responsibility serve with integrity, competence, and an unwavering focus on the needs of our people,” said the Minister.

In his speech, Minister Inkosi Buthelezi also urged the private sector to strengthen their compliance within their respective sectors, such as Tax Ombudsman, Press Ombudsman, and Ombudsman for Banking Services.

“Building a developmental state requires collaboration between government, oversight institutions, civil society, and the private sector—and conferences such as this one provide a critical platform for sharing best practices and mapping out actionable solutions,” said the Minister.

The Public Protector, Advocate Kholela Gcaleka, addressed the first day of the conference, taking place over two days starting today, 18 November 2024. She emphasised the importance of the engagement in light of the paradoxical achievements and ongoing challenges associated with South Africa’s 30 years of democracy.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Ms Thoko Didiza, was also among the featured speakers for the day. Ms Didiza delivered a provocative keynote speech on the relationship between Parliament as an oversight body and Chapters 9 and 10 institutions, posing challenging questions about the need to rationalise their roles given potential areas of duplication.